By MELISSA WALKER

Staff Writer

He was just your run-of-the-mill womanizing, legendary musician/heroin addict.

But somehow "Ray," is just more than that.

Jamie Foxx (Collateral) portrays Ray Charles in the biographical movie about his personal struggles as he rose to stardom.

The movie exposes Charles in a most pure light. No gory detail is spared concerning his addiction to heroin, legal troubles, extramarital affairs and his illegitimate child.

Flashbacks play throughout the film to better describe Charles's past and where his motivation originates.

Despite the thematic elements that may stain his moral image, director Taylor Hackford manages to maintain an overall positive portrayal of Charles.

Charles's character, without question, is helped by Foxx, who is said to be a shoo-in for Best Actor for his performance in "Ray."

Foxx manages to leave whatever previous image he has as a celebrity at the door in order to mislead move viewers into thinking they are witnessing Ray Charles himself remember scenes from his "rock star" life.

Second to Foxx's impressive presentation is the soundtrack. Charles' music is displayed throughout the majority of the motion picture, almost stealing the attention totally away from the screen.

Bonus features on the DVD edition, which include a jam session with Foxx and the legendary Charles, make a nice addition to the new flawless film.

"Ray" makes for a sufficient depiction of the legendary icon.